A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Reims for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Istanbul or Reims?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Reims, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Reims

Reims is a relaxing, scenic, and cultural city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Reims: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Reims?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Reims. Istanbul is bigger than Reims, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Reims and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Reims is well known for its Champagne Houses, impressive architecture, and beautiful cathedral.

How is Istanbul different from Reims?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Reims and Istanbul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Istanbul or Reims?

Istanbul is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Istanbul on the map. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

Reims is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Sights around town include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, Palais du Tau, Basilique Saint-Rémi, and Musée des Beaux-Arts.

Is the Food Better in Istanbul or Reims? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Reims can be difficult as they are each amazing in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

Many restaurants in Reims have been singled out for their culinary prowess. While its famous for its Champagne, the city also has Michelin starred restaurants, local produce, and an amazing regional cuisine. The region is known for its ham, cheese, mustard, and truffles.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

If you're looking for night time activities Reims has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is relaxing but active. Most locals hang out with friends at local bars near Place Drouet d'Erlon or the Rue Chanzy area. Bars have a combination of local beers and Champagne.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Reims does not have a historic old town.

Istanbul has a world-famous historical area. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Reims does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Reims?

Both Istanbul and Reims are superb shopping destinations.

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Reims is well-known for its shopping. You'll find not only Champagne, but also jewellry, designer fashion, and chocolate. The best shopping is located around the Place Drouet d'Erlon which is a pedestrian area. Also check out the shopping streets of Rue de Vesle and Cours Langlet.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for Families?

Istanbul is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Reims is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Istanbul is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

For families, Reims is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the historical city center or visiting the Palace of Tau. For a unique activity, view the region from above with a hot air balloon ride.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for Couples?

Reims is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Istanbul is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Reims has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This romantic area is perfect for couples who enjoy wine and history. There is beautiful architecture as well as wine tours and breathtaking hot air balloon rides. Visiting the Champagne Houses is a must for any couple visiting the area.

Istanbul makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is very popular for backpackers. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Reims is a good city to visit for backpackers. It's located in the Champagne region, which isn't often associated with backpackers, but it's still not to be missed.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. However, Reims is not popular with students.

Istanbul is a great city to visit as a student. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Reims is not popular with students.

Is Istanbul or Reims Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Istanbul is very popular for its public transit. Also, Reims is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Istanbul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Reims offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. In town there are buses and trams, but to get into the countryside you'll need your own car.

Is Istanbul or Reims a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Reims both are superb when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Reims is a very walkable city. You can explore the city on foot and reach many local Champagne Houses. If you really want to explore everything in depth, you'll need a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Reims Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Reims or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Reims?

In either Istanbul or Reims, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than Reims because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 2-5 days is enough time in Reims.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Reims. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Istanbul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Reims if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Reims?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful city of Reims offers food and shopping. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Reims?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Reims is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reims, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Reims?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Reims is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Reims, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Reims?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Reims is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that food is why people visit. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Istanbul and Reims, we can see that Reims is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Istanbul Expensive? and Is Reims Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Reims?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Reims. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Reims, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Istanbul or Reims?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reims in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Reims. The summer months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Reims this time of year.

In July, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Reims fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Reims this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Reims during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 235 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Reims. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reims in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Reims. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Reims for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Reims in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Reims fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Reims. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 122 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Reims. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Reims receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reims in the Winter?

Both Reims and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Reims in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Reims can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Istanbul is much warmer than Reims. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Reims averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Reims during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Reims receives 50 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Reims. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Reims receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Reims in the Spring?

Both Reims and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Istanbul in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Reims for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Istanbul is generally a little warmer than Reims. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Reims fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Reims. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reims receives 172 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in April than Reims. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Reims receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reims and Istanbul